help

GPX Routes & Downloads

Take the trail with you

Found a route you'd like to explore yourself? Routes in the Wander Atlas can be downloaded as GPX files and used with compatible navigation apps and GPS devices.

The basics

What is a
GPX file?

A GPX file is a small file containing route information that can be opened by many hiking and navigation apps, GPS devices and sports watches.

Instead of recreating a route yourself, you can download the GPX file from the Wander Atlas and import it into a compatible app or device. The route can then be used as a guide while you're out exploring.

From Atlas to trail

How to use a route

01

Download

Open a route in the Wander Atlas and choose the GPX download.

02

Import

Import the downloaded file into the navigation app or GPS device you prefer to use.

03

Explore

Check the route before setting off, then take it with you on your own adventure.

Using your route

From GPX
to Komoot

Komoot is one way to use the GPX routes from the Wander Atlas. You'll need a Komoot account and you'll need to be signed in before you can import a route.

01

Import the GPX file

On the Komoot website, select New → Import a GPS file. Choose Upload file and select the GPX file you downloaded from the Wander Atlas.

02

Turn it into a planned route

Komoot will show you a preview of the route. Choose Import to plan a route rather than importing it as an activity, then select Next.

03

Choose Hiking

Select Hiking as the sport and continue with Next.

04

Choose how Komoot handles the route

If part of the GPX route doesn't match paths or roads known to Komoot, you'll be asked how you want to continue.

Follow the original route

Keeps the route as close as possible to the GPX I recorded. Navigation may be less reliable where Komoot doesn't recognise the path.

Plan route on known roads

Lets Komoot recalculate those sections using paths it knows. Navigation may be more reliable, but the route can differ from the one I originally walked.

05

Save the route

Select Save Tour, choose Save as solo route, then select Done. Your route is now saved to your Komoot account.

Ready to head out

Find your route
on your phone

Open the Komoot app on your phone and go to Profile → Saved routes. Select the route you just imported.

When you're ready to start your hike, you can use Navigate with phone to follow the route in Komoot.

If you're driving to the start of the hike, Komoot can also help you get there.

Open your saved route in the Komoot app and scroll down beneath the map. Select Show directions and choose Maps. Google Maps will open with directions to the starting point of the route.

Getting there

Navigate to the
starting point

Before you head out

A route is a guide, not a guarantee.

The GPX files on OnlineWanderer are based on routes I have personally walked. They show where I went at the time of my hike, but conditions can change.

Paths may be closed, rerouted or become inaccessible, and weather, terrain and local conditions can be different when you visit. Always check current information, follow local signs and restrictions, and make sure a route is suitable for you before heading out.

Ready to explore?

Find your next route

Explore the Wander Atlas, discover the trails I've walked and download a route for your own adventure.

Explore the Wander Atlas →